New York: Syria’s fragile state was a central focus during the Security Council meeting, where senior officials and representatives from various nations warned against further escalation that could exacerbate the region’s instability. Najat Rochdi, Deputy Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, emphasized via video link that the country is already stretched beyond its limits and cannot endure another wave of instability, particularly as sporadic violence persists across regions like Homs and Hama.
According to EMM, the security challenges in Syria are compounded by socio-economic difficulties, despite nearly 600,000 Syrians returning over the past six months. These returns hinge on factors such as housing availability and economic revitalization. Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, highlighted the dire need for humanitarian aid, with three-quarters of the population requiring immediate relief and over 7 million people still displaced.
Amneh Khoulani, a human rights defender, shared her personal experience, urging international support for a justice process as a foundation for sustainable peace. She highlighted the importance of equal participation of women in decision-making and called for measures to locate missing persons and ensure dignified returns.
Member States echoed the necessity of protecting civilians and rebuilding Syria’s economy. Denmark’s delegate stressed the importance of securing civilian protection, while Pakistan and France emphasized the need for timely and unimpeded aid. The US representative noted a shift in relations with Syria, with sanctions eased to foster economic recovery.
Discussions also addressed the threat of violent extremism, with calls for independent investigations into recent incidents. The representatives from China and the Republic of Korea underscored the need for effective counter-terrorism measures and institutional security reforms.
The representatives of several nations, including Greece and the Russian Federation, pointed to the need for a political transition and intra-Syrian reconciliation. They emphasized the potential for Syria to become a stabilizing factor in the region if it can achieve political and economic stability.
Iran and Yemen’s representatives condemned Israeli actions affecting Syria, while Turkey highlighted the importance of maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity amidst regional tensions. Syria’s representative, acknowledging ongoing challenges, outlined efforts towards national reconciliation and institutional reform, aiming for a peaceful and stable future.
The session underscored the complexity of Syria’s situation, highlighting the intertwined challenges of security, humanitarian needs, and political processes, and the international community's role in supporting Syria's path to recovery.